In response to a gap in gender-sensitive programming for young aggressive girls (5-11) and their families, the SNAP Girls Connection (GC) was developed in 1996. This multi-systemic intervention is built on a developmental model of risk and protective factors within the girl and her relationships. We evaluated the SNAP(R) GC using a prospective quasi-experimental design, randomly assigning 80 girls to treatment (N = 45) and waiting-list groups (N = 35) over 2 years. Fifty-five parents completed measures at assessment periods 1, 2 and 3. Results showed significant positive changes on girls' problem behavior and parenting skills for the treatment versus the waiting-list groups, as well as maintenance of treatment gains. Implications of the findings on treatment effectiveness of this gender-sensitive intervention are discussed.

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This study examines the effect of an ecological and contextually responsive approach, during initial intake call, on engagement for multistressed families seeking child mental health services in an urban setting. Methods: Using a randomized design, parents were allocated to phone Intake As Usual (IAU) or Enhanced Engagement Phone Intake (EEPI). IAU consisted of a lengthy mandated standardized phone intake interview. EEPI, wrapped around the standard intake, was a flexible approach, attuning to the parent's concerns, help-seeking experience, and stressors and incorporating problem-solving and motivational interviewing. Results: Controlling for child gender, child age, income, and marital status, parents in the EEPI condition were 3 times more likely to attend their initial face-to-face agency appointment and subsequent treatment services. Conclusions: This study contributes to building the evidence base for early engagement approaches responsive to families' broader ecological context to ensure that vulnerable children and families access and receive benefits of treatment.